The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, prized for its accuracy and reliability. However, many shooters find the factory trigger a bit lacking. It's often described as gritty, heavy, and inconsistent – factors that can significantly impact accuracy and shot placement. Upgrading to an aftermarket Remington 700 trigger is a popular modification that can dramatically improve your shooting experience. This comprehensive guide explores the best Remington 700 triggers available, helping you choose the perfect upgrade for your needs and budget.
Understanding Your Remington 700 Trigger Needs
Before diving into specific trigger models, it's crucial to understand what you're looking for in a trigger. Consider these factors:
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Pull Weight: The force required to pull the trigger. Lighter triggers (around 2-3 pounds) offer greater precision, but require careful handling to avoid accidental discharges. Heavier triggers (4-5 pounds) are safer for new shooters but can hinder accuracy.
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Creep: The amount of slack before the trigger breaks. Less creep translates to a crisper, cleaner break, crucial for precision shooting.
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Overtravel: The distance the trigger travels after the shot breaks. Reducing overtravel enhances consistency and reduces follow-through issues.
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Break: The feel of the trigger release. A clean, crisp break is ideal. A gritty or mushy break can cause inaccuracy and frustration.
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Adjustability: The ability to adjust pull weight, creep, and overtravel allows customization to your personal preference and shooting style.
Table 1: Trigger Characteristics Comparison
| Feature | Ideal for Beginners | Ideal for Experienced Shooters |
|---|---|---|
| Pull Weight | 4-5 lbs | 2-3 lbs |
| Creep | Minimal | Minimal to None |
| Overtravel | Minimal | Minimal to None |
| Adjustability | Less Important | Highly Important |
| Safety Features | High Priority | Important, but may be secondary |
Top Remington 700 Trigger Upgrades: A Detailed Look
The market offers a vast selection of Remington 700 triggers, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here's a breakdown of some of the best options:
1. Timney Triggers: Precision and Performance
Timney triggers are renowned for their exceptional quality, crisp breaks, and adjustability. They're consistently ranked among the top choices for Remington 700 upgrades. The Timney Calvin Elite is a particularly popular option, offering a lightweight, crisp trigger pull with minimal creep and overtravel. They also offer a wide range of triggers specifically designed for various Remington 700 models.
Pros: Excellent quality, crisp break, highly adjustable, many models available
Cons: Relatively expensive compared to some competitors
2. Rifle Basix Triggers: Reliable and Affordable
For shooters seeking a balance of quality and affordability, Rifle Basix triggers are an excellent choice. They provide a significant improvement over the factory trigger, offering a cleaner break and reduced creep. While not as extensively adjustable as Timney triggers, they still offer good value for the price. The Rifle Basix Trigger is simple to install and provides solid performance.
Pros: Affordable, easy installation, noticeable improvement over factory trigger
Cons: Less adjustability compared to higher-end options
3. Jewel Triggers: The Pinnacle of Precision
Jewel triggers represent the pinnacle of trigger technology. Known for their incredibly crisp breaks, minimal creep, and precise adjustability, these triggers are a favorite among competitive shooters. The Jewel Trigger requires professional installation in most cases and is significantly more expensive than other options. However, for those seeking the ultimate in trigger performance, the investment is often worthwhile.
Pros: Unmatched precision, incredibly crisp break, highly adjustable
Cons: Expensive, often requires professional installation
4. TriggerTech Triggers: A Blend of Quality and Features
TriggerTech triggers offer a compelling combination of high quality, adjustability, and a competitive price point. Their TriggerTech Remington 700 Trigger stands out for offering a very short reset and a clean break. Similar to the Timney, TriggerTech offers a range of triggers tailored to specific Remington 700 variations.
Pros: Excellent value, good adjustability, short reset
Cons: May not be as crisp as Timney or Jewel triggers
Installation Considerations: DIY or Professional?
Installing a Remington 700 trigger can range from straightforward to complex, depending on the chosen model. Some triggers are easily installed with basic gunsmithing tools and knowledge. However, other triggers, particularly those requiring extensive adjustments, may necessitate professional installation to prevent damage or malfunctions. If you are unsure about your abilities, it's always best to seek professional assistance.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Remington 700 Trigger
The best Remington 700 trigger for you will depend on your budget, skill level, and shooting style. Consider your priorities – a lightweight trigger, adjustability, or just a simple upgrade over the factory trigger – and choose accordingly. Each trigger mentioned above offers a significant improvement over the factory trigger, and all contribute to improved accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all relevant safety guidelines when working with firearms.